PANTS DOWN Keep your dog cool

AN animal charity is warning people not to gamble with their pets’ lives this summer.

Since lockdown began, the RSPCA has had more than 300 calls about dogs in distress during warm weather.

In the recent heatwave, temperatures hit 33C – and as the lockdown eases, many people will be keen for their dog to join them on day trips.

But Dr Sam Gaines, the charity’s dog welfare expert, warned that only half of pets suffering from heatstroke will survive.

“Please do not put your pet at risk by leaving them in a vehicle on a warm day,” she said. “Please leave them at home with access to a cool, shady area and plenty of water.

“For many people, it’s a relief that lockdown has eased and with most dogs being an important part of the family, it’s going to be tempting to want to take them on a day out by car.

“But temperatures can rise very quickly inside a vehicle. Having the windows down and a bowl of water is not enough to keep a dog cool.”

Vets Now, the UK’S leading provider of emergency veterinary care, said it only takes a 2C increase in body temperature for heatstroke to kick in.

Warning signs include heavy panting, whining or signs of agitation, excessive thirst, glassy eyes and weakness.

Dr Gaines added: “Sadly, we’ve seen a number of tragic cases where dogs have died after being left inside a hot vehicle and in most cases, their owners were devastated and truly thought their dogs would be OK.

“It’s so important people remember that ‘not long is too long’ when it comes to leaving your dog in the car, even if you only plan to be a few minutes.”

Many people who see a dog trapped in a hot vehicle will instinctively want to break the windows to get them out.

Consent

But be aware that this can be classed as criminal damage and you could potentially have to defend your actions in court.

Don’t be afraid to dial 999 and tell the police what you intend to do and why. Also take pictures or videos of the dog and the names and numbers of any witnesses to the incident.

The law states that you can legally commit damage if you believe the owner of the property would consent if they knew the circumstances.

Once removed from a hot car, the dog should be moved to a shady area, doused with cool water and allowed to drink small amounts of it.

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